Anne Arundel County Register of Wills Candidate Profiles: Jasmine Jackson & Courtney Buiniskis

Report Annapolis News has asked both candidates currently seeking the Anne Arundel County Register of Wills Office to participate in a question and answer profile. For the 2026 election, Jasmine M. Jackson (pictured on the left), the current Register of Wills, is running to retain her seat, and Courtney Buiniskis (pictured on the right), has announced she is challenging her. The election will be held next year on November 3, 2026. Both candidates received the same questions and their answers are published verbatim.

Jasmine Jackson | 

P.O. Box 31

Millersville, MD 21108

Email: jasminemjackson26@gmail.com

www.jasminemjackson.com

Courtney Buiniskis |

P.O. Box 204

Shady Side, MD 20764

Email: citizensforbuiniskis@gmail.com

www.courtneybuiniskis.com

What is your long-term vision for the Register of Wills office, and how will you address its main challenges and opportunities?

Jasmine Jackson: My long-term vision for the Register of Wills office is to ensure that residents of Anne Arundel County know they can rely on us for compassionate and professional assistance. When families need guidance, our office will provide excellent customer service by explaining the probate process in a way that is clear, accurate, and easy to understand.

Residents will have confidence that if they have questions about their responsibilities as administrators of an estate, or their rights as interested parties, they can contact our office, speak directly with a knowledgeable staff member, and receive timely answers within the limits of what the law allows us to provide.

I also envision the office becoming more visible and accessible throughout the county by increasing speaking engagements and community outreach. With my extensive experience in probate law, I am committed to ensuring that the public receives accurate, reliable information about the probate process, empowering families to navigate these matters with clarity and peace of mind.

Courtney Buiniskis: My name is Courtney Buiniskis, and I’m running for Anne Arundel County Register of Wills to bring fresh leadership, higher ethical standards, and community engagement to the office. My long-term vision for the Register of Wills office is to make it a trusted, accessible, and compassionate resource for every family in Anne Arundel County. Too often, people only think about wills and estates during times of loss, but legacy is so much more than paperwork—it’s the story of our lives, the values we pass on, and the security we build for our loved ones.

I want to ensure that the office does more than process legal documents. It should educate,

guide, and empower families so they can make informed decisions before they’re in crisis. That

means improving outreach, expanding access to clear resources, and creating an environment

where every resident—no matter their background—feels supported and respected. Helping

residents to build generational wealth will be a priority. The challenges we face are real: many residents are unaware of the resources available, the process can feel overwhelming, and too often people only walk through the office doors at the

hardest moments of their lives. But within those challenges lies opportunity. We can modernize

how we share information through e-filing, strengthen partnerships with community

organizations, and bring a more human-centered approach to estate planning and probate.

As your Register of Wills, I’ll bring the same hands-on, community-centered leadership I’ve

shown through years of service—whether volunteering at many boards such as the Hospice of Chesapeake, connecting residents with vital services, or working alongside nonprofits. Together, we can preserve your legacy with dignity, clarity, and care—for today, tomorrow, and

generations to come.

What are the most important issues facing the Register of Wills office, and how will you prioritize them?

Jasmine Jackson: One of the most important issues facing the Register of Wills office is employee retention. In my 17 years with the office, I’ve seen firsthand how turnover can affect both efficiency and customer service. With my degree in Human Resource Management, I understand what employees need to feel valued and supported. My priority is to strengthen retention through consistent training, professional development, and creating a workplace culture where staff feel engaged and motivated, because when employees thrive, the public receives the best possible service.

Courtney Buiniskis: As a candidate for ROW and resident of Anne Arundel County, the issues are clear: there are many challenges.

● Public trust — Regaining trust after the previous administration’s misconduct and loss

of public confidence.

● Lack of community engagement- By continuously engaging in the community instead

of engaging only during the campaign season

● Operational uncertainty — Preparing for possible repeal of the inheritance tax.

● Modernization — Updating processes and efficiency standards.

● Access — Ensuring residents can easily reach and use ROW resources, creating

business hours that work for the people. All of these issues will be a priority because too many ROWs have neglected them for far too

long.

Public Trust and Reputational Challenges-

The office has been plagued by misconduct and perceived misuse of funds. Lack of

transparency and accountability has eroded trust. Scandals gain media attention and undermine

confidence in the office’s ability to act ethically and competently.

As your next ROW, ethics, transparency, and accountability will be upheld at every position and

level under my leadership. That is why over 16 elected officials from the city, county, and state

have endorsed me. They know that under my leadership, ethics, transparency, and

accountability are a must. You know I’ll do it because I have done it; my work speaks for itself.

Access and Public Awareness-

Many residents are unaware of the importance of estate and will planning, what materials are

needed, or what rights/responsibilities they have. Lack of early guidance leads to contested or

delayed estates. Geographic, language, or technological barriers also limit access, whether for rural residents, those with limited internet access, or residents for whom English is not a first language.

The difference with my appointed opponent is that I’m an educator. As an Adjunct Professor for

8 years at the local community college, I’ve educated our workforce and know how to share

knowledge effectively—because knowledge is power. As your next Register of Wills, I will bring

an educational component to the office, working with staff, estate and will lawyers, and the

community to ensure we help build generational wealth.

If elected/re-elected, what would you aim to achieve in your first six months? 

Jasmine Jackson: One of my top priorities as Register of Wills is to continue developing clear and consistent training programs for every department within the office. Having worked in every department in some capacity, I bring a unique advantage to this role. My firsthand experience provides me with a deep understanding of what works well and what needs improvement, enabling me to design training that strengthens efficiency, accuracy, and the level of service we provide to the public.

Another priority is to expand resources available to Executors as they navigate the estate process. By leveraging my professional connections with individuals experienced in probate, I plan to create easy-to-follow guidelines and tools that will help Executors fulfill their responsibilities with greater confidence and clarity.

Courtney Buiniskis: In my first six months when elected, my top priority will be listening to staff who know the daily

operations best, and to the community, to understand where the greatest needs and challenges lie. At the same time, I’ll diligently learn every aspect of the office to serve effectively from day one. 

My focus will be on:

● Improving internal processes for efficiency.

● Modernizing services and accessibility.

● Building strong relationships with city, county, and state partners.

My goal is simple: every resident who comes through the office should feel supported,

respected, and empowered to protect their legacy.

How will you improve the quality of service provided by the Register of Wills office?

Jasmine Jackson: Improving the quality of service begins with training. My approach goes beyond teaching staff how to complete paperwork. I believe it’s equally important to train them to understand the laws and financial instruments that affect estates, such as stocks or life insurance policies. Just as important, I emphasize soft skills like empathy, patience, active listening, and clear communication. Families often come to us during some of the most difficult moments of their lives, and they deserve not only accurate information, but also compassion and respect. By combining technical expertise with strong interpersonal skills, our office can deliver service that is both knowledgeable and truly supportive.

Courtney Buiniskis: I will improve service by setting a standard of professionalism and commitment to excellence. That means:

● Well-trained, compassionate staff.

● Modernized processes to reduce delays.

● Strong accountability for consistent, respectful service. By leading with professionalism and care, I’ll ensure families feel supported and confident that their legacy is handled with dignity.

How will you prioritize improving the understanding the community has about the role of the Register of Wills office?

Jasmine Jackson: I will prioritize improving community understanding of the Register of Wills office by meeting people where they are. That means continuing speaking engagements and making sure correct information is available in the places where families naturally begin thinking about estate planning, such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, public libraries, and funeral homes. By bringing education and resources directly into the community, we can ensure more residents know what our office does and how we can help. 

Courtney Buiniskis: This is where my experience in county government matters. Also, my master’s in higher education comes into play. I will educate the community through informational sessions and workshops. I will utilize my extensive community connections, developed through years of public service, to organize sessions and rebuild a community outreach team that my opponent

eliminated. Ending outreach after a scandal was wrong. Community outreach and interaction are critical to rebuilding trust and helping families build generational wealth by taking care of these important matters I will help improve my own understanding the ROW Office.

What action will you take to address concerns of waste and mismanagement?

Jasmine Jackson: As Register of Wills, I am committed to leading an office that is efficient, accountable, and dedicated to serving the public. To address concerns about waste and mismanagement, I have taken steps to clarify staff roles and ensure that resources are used effectively. Our primary responsibility is to provide residents with the information they need to serve as personal representatives during the probate process, and my focus has always been on making sure this remains the office’s top priority.

While some have criticized my decision to end practices I determined were not fiscally responsible, every action I have taken has been guided by the goal of serving the community responsibly. It is also important to clarify the scope of our role: the Register of Wills office does not participate in estate planning or the creation of wills. By setting clear expectations, we can better serve the public and avoid confusion.

Finally, public education is an essential part of our mission. Speaking engagements should be handled by the Register or a senior staff member to ensure residents receive accurate information while resources are managed wisely.

Courtney Buiniskis: I will:

● Gather evidence and assess issues thoroughly.

● Alert appropriate authorities if needed

● Engage management and staff to address root causes.

● Use audits, transparency, and staff training to ensure accountability.

● Improve communication through meetings and professional developm

What key services does the Register of Wills Office currently provide would you like to improve? Are there any services that are currently not provided that you would like to implement? 

Jasmine Jackson: One service our office offers that is already well-utilized but could benefit more residents is our safekeeping service. While it is not required to file your will with our office during your lifetime, for just $5, residents can securely store their will in our fireproof and weatherproof vault. Utilizing our safekeeping service ensures that your heirs always know where it is and helps prevent fraudulent wills from being submitted for probate. As part of my speaking engagements, I always explain why it is safer to have your will filed with our office rather than at home or in a safe deposit box. It’s a simple step that provides peace of mind and protects your wishes.

Courtney Buiniskis: Probate and estate administration — Use technology and e-filing to reduce backlogs.

Guidance materials — Provide guides, pamphlets, and checklists to assist residents

without lawyers.

How would you handle controversial issues that may arise while in office? How would you handle public criticism?

Jasmine Jackson: Controversial issues in the Register of Wills office often arise around staffing decisions, resource allocation, or public misunderstandings of the office’s role. Someone with experience in the office has a unique advantage in handling these situations because they already know what is appropriate, what works, and what does not. My years of service in every department have given me a clear understanding of the office’s operations, allowing me to make decisions that are fair, lawful, and in the best interest of both staff and the community. In the event a controversial issue arises, I would handle public criticism by taking true accountability for my role. If the situation resulted in criminal charges or an ethical question, I would step down, because that is what true accountability looks like.

Courtney Buiniskis: Directly and honestly. I believe in high ethical standards. The Register of Wills Office has faced numerous ethical challenges, and it’s clear that change is needed.

This office deserves a leader who isn’t afraid of tough questions. I’ve proven my commitment

through community meetings, county council meetings, board meetings, and countless

constituent services and calls. I always listen carefully and respond clearly and directly.

What is your approach to collaborating with other state and county agencies? Describe your plan to work with and engage community stakeholders (residents, businesses, non-profits). 

Jasmine Jackson: My approach is to maintain open lines of communication with state and county agencies and to share resources and information to ensure residents receive accurate guidance. I have strong relationships with members of the Anne Arundel County Bar Association, which allows me to stay informed about legal changes affecting estate planning and probate. These relationships help me provide residents with reliable support throughout the process.

I also prioritize partnerships with senior centers and assisted living facilities so families know where to turn when they need to open an estate. These connections enable me to serve the community effectively and provide accessible, timely support.

Finally, I have maintained a strong professional relationship with the other 23 Registers of Wills across Maryland. These statewide partnerships help ensure consistency and best practices in all offices, benefiting residents throughout the state.

Courtney Buiniskis: My approach is to collaborate early and often. I’ve worked extensively with many agencies and

built strong relationships across the local political spectrum. I’m already deeply engaged in the community, meeting with residents, businesses, and nonprofits. I have already provided informational sessions about wills and estates, raising awareness about why legacies matter.

How will you balance the needs of the various departments and services lines with the overall interests of the Register of Wills office?

Jasmine Jackson: Balancing the needs of the various departments with the overall interests of the Register of Wills office starts with understanding how each area functions and contributes to our mission. Having worked in every department of the office, I know firsthand what resources, training, and support staff need to perform at their best. My approach is to ensure that each department has clear guidance and the tools necessary to serve residents effectively, while also coordinating across teams to maintain efficiency and consistency in the services we provide. By aligning the work of every department with the office’s overall mission, we can deliver high-quality, compassionate, and accurate service to the community.

Courtney Buiniskis: I believe the key to balancing department needs with the overall mission of the Register of Wills office is strong, ethical leadership rooted in both efficiency and compassion. My experience has

prepared me to do exactly that.

As President of my Democratic Club, I’ve successfully led large community events—such as moderating the first County Executive Forum in Anne Arundel County—where I ensured all

voices were heard while keeping the program organized and effective. That same skill will guide

me in listening to staff needs, improving workflow, and making sure the department runs

smoothly.

In my professional and volunteer work, I’ve overseen teams, managed projects, and engaged

directly with residents. I know how to identify what resources are needed to keep a department

effective, while never losing sight of the greater mission: serving families with fairness,

transparency, and compassion during some of the most difficult times of their lives.

My focus will always be to:

● Support and equip staff so they can serve the public well.

● Modernize and streamline processes so the office is accessible and efficient.

● Uphold the ethical standards and community engagement that keep public trust at the

heart of the office’s mission.

Balancing department needs with the mission means making sure every internal decision

reflects the ultimate purpose of the office—to serve families with dignity, integrity, and

fairness.

How will you engage with and gather feedback from the community?

Jasmine Jackson: I will engage with the community by actively attending events that align with the mission of the Register of Wills, such as wellness fairs, senior expos, and community resource events. These events provide valuable opportunities to meet residents where they are, answer questions directly, and raise awareness about the importance of understanding the probate process. I also plan to strengthen partnerships with local organizations, nonprofits, and faith-based groups to expand outreach and ensure information is accessible to all corners of Anne Arundel County.

In addition, I am committed to maintaining open channels of communication with the public. We currently provide survey cards that community members can fill out to share feedback on their experience with our office. We often receive 20–30 letters of commendation praising the service provided to families. While not every interaction is positive, I take all feedback seriously. I carefully review negative feedback to determine whether additional staff training is needed or if a miscommunication occurred.

This process of engaging with the public, listening to their experiences, and acting on their input not only helps us continually improve our services but also builds trust. Residents deserve to continue to have an office that is approachable, transparent, responsive and one that they can count on for support and guidance during some of the most difficult moments of their lives from an experienced Register and staff.

Courtney Buiniskis: ● Informational sessions

● Newsletters

● County and state meetings

● Community meetings

● Phone and email communication

● What I am currently already doing is serving the community.

How do you plan to manage the significant time commitment of Register of Wills duties alongside other obligations?

Jasmine Jackson: Managing the responsibilities of the Register of Wills requires careful planning, organization, and delegation. Having spent years working in every department of the office gives me a deep understanding of its operations and allows me to prioritize tasks effectively. I also rely on strong, well-trained staff to ensure that day-to-day operations run smoothly, freeing me to focus on strategic decisions, community outreach, and complex issues. Balancing these duties with other obligations comes down to preparation, clear scheduling, and maintaining a focus on serving the residents of Anne Arundel County efficiently and effectively.

Courtney Buiniskis: I have been a full-time employee for my adult life and have found time to raise a family, attend

school while working full-time, obtain bachelor's and master's degrees, become a college

professor, help bring the union to the local community college, run for office, and chair several boards and committees. I'm blessed to have a stable family and home life that enables me to devote time to my passions.

I currently work full-time, run a county-wide campaign with a committee of ten, President of my civic club, and am a current board member of the Anne Arundel Democratic Central Committee,

Hospice of Chesapeake, and the Ralph Bunch Board. I manage my time well, so I don’t need to

plan a large time commitment because I am already doing it. I’ve balanced full-time work,

raising a family, earning degrees, teaching as a professor, running a campaign, and serving on

multiple boards. With my stable home life and proven time management, I’m fully prepared to

dedicate myself to the Register of Wills role.

What values will guide your decisions as the Register of Wills office?

Jasmine Jackson: The decisions I make as Register of Wills will be guided by two core values: empathy and logic. Empathy ensures that I understand and respect the needs of families during what can be a difficult and emotional time, while logic ensures that every decision is fair, lawful, and consistent with the responsibilities of the office. By balancing compassion with careful reasoning, I can provide residents with both thoughtful guidance and reliable service.

Courtney Buiniskis: Honesty, courage, integrity, compassion, respect, accountability, discipline, responsibility, and humility are the main values I do my best to exemplify. When I have to make important ordifficult decisions, I ask myself a few questions as I'm processing. Does this decision align with my values? How will this impact others? Will I be proud of my decision long-term? And if there is conflict between values, I ask myself, which is more important or relevant in this situation?

I have forged my reputation by displaying my values throughout my career, which is evident in

my various endorsements, awards, and appointments over the years. Another reason why it’s time for the residents to elect the next Register of Wills.

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